Bio: Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines was born to dance. He is the president of DOAHL Entertainment Group (Dance on a Higher Level) a Christian based organization he founded in August 2004. DOAHL is dedicated to providing the best in choreography, inspiring others to reach their fullest potential in all areas of life. Through customized teaching tools, DOAHL seeks to use dance as a way to impact lives, providing excellence in choreography and dance services.

Gregory grew up in the infamous Jane/Finch area in the city of Toronto. Though his neighbourhood was surrounded by high crime and violence, Gregory was not distracted by the lures of the street. Instead he started realizing his abilities and at the age of twelve began to dance in the genres of hip/hop and break dancing.

As he continued to improve his gifts, Gregory’s talents were soon discovered and in the early 1990’s he branched out professionally and began dancing in music videos for such recording artists as Mariah Carey, Cam’ron (featuring Mase), Glen Lewis, Maestro and many more. In 1995 -1996 he started teaching dance; first, with the “Toronto Raptors Jr. Dance Pack” as well as various dance schools around the city. He has also made numerous television appearances dancing for such award shows as “The Canadian Urban Music Awards” with Do Dat Dance Troupe (1998, under the choreography of Luther Brown); “The Juno Awards” with Deborah Cox and Choclair (2000/2001) and “The Teen Choice Awards” (2001) with rapper Eve. Gregory has also opened for several concerts with Do Dat Dance Troupe for Destiny’s Child, Lil’ Kim, Case and many more. Gregory now has expanded his horizons into the genre of Gospel music and has danced / choreographed for artist such as, Hettie Marie, Rhema Worship and Praise at the 2005 Canadian Shai awards., Londa Larmond, and soon to be recording artists Amoy Levy, Aion Clarke, and future artists.

He currently runs DOAHL Academy, a school that teaches dance to different age groups, making a positive impact on his community. His goal is to make sure that DOAHL is the company of the future that changes the face and structure of dance. Gregory continues to reside in the city of Toronto with his wife Charlene who also plays a major role as his assistant choreographer.

Testimonial

Why it is important to work with youth who can not afford professional arts training? To ensure that no dream is left out. To give back to a community that has less to look forward to anything. I was a youth that could not afford training living in Jane & Finch but got the opportunity to live my dream through dance! So with that understanding that is why I give back to the next generation of arts performers can do the same.